FOUNTAIN GRASS

FAMILY: Poaceae | GENUS: PENNISETUM

Plant Details

Growing in graceful, fountainlike mounds, these are among the most foolproof grasses for the South. They have long, narrow leaves and arching stems that bear furry, foxtail-like plumes. Bloom begins in summer and often extends into fall. Excellent in containers, in mixed borders, as dramatic sweeps, and for bank covers. Cut back perennial types to within a few inches of the ground in late winter for fresh new growth in spring. Resist deer.

fireworks fountain grass

pennisetum x advena 'Fireworks

Perennial in Zones CS, TS; USDA 9-11; annual elsewhere.

Showy, 2 feet-tall mound of upright foliage is bright pink with a burgundy stripe down the center.

Recommended selections include 3 feet-tall 'Karley Rose', with an upright form with dark green foliage and deep pink plumes, and 'Tall Tails', a very heat-tolerant 6-footer with tan plumes that does well in Florida.

fountain grass

pennisetum setaceum

Coppery pink or purplish plumes are held within the clump or just above it.

Tolerates drought once established.

Particularly prone to self-sowing.

Less likely to set seed is its selection 'Rubrum', purple fountain grass, with reddish purple leaves and showy rose-colored plumes; it's among the most popular of ornamental grasses, outstanding in containers and mixed borders.